Lawmakers hear about dangers of concussions among high school athletes

Lawmakers hear about young athletes’ head injuries

WASHINGTON — Experts and former high school athletes are telling Congress that more must be done about the risk concussions pose to young athletes.

Those testifying at a House Education and Labor Committee hearing stressed that young people who suffer concussions are at greater risk of long-term damage because their brains are not fully developed.

A government report found that there are no good numbers on how many high school athletes suffer concussions. And it said estimates are probably low, because young athletes tend to downplay their injuries so they can get back on the field quickly.

A 19-year-old woman who played high school basketball and softball told lawmakers she suffered five concussions. Michelle Pelton of Swansea, Mass., says she continues to endure memory loss, depression and lack of concentration.